The Mississippi Company was a French trading company established in the early 18th century, primarily focused on the development of the territory around the Mississippi River. Founded by John Law in 1717, it aimed to exploit the natural resources and trade opportunities in the region, which was part of the vast French colonial empire in North America. The company became famous for its ambitious plans and speculative investments, leading to a financial bubble known as the Mississippi Bubble. This bubble burst in 1720, resulting in significant financial losses for investors and contributing to a broader economic crisis in France. The company's influence waned after this collapse.